Likhith · September 5, 2025 
Introduction
The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) provides one of the most credible rankings of Indian higher education and research institutions annually. Understanding the 2025 vs 2024 NIRF ranking changes helps students, researchers, and academics identify emerging trends in India’s research landscape.
The Research Institute category specifically highlights institutions excelling in scientific output, innovation, and research quality. This detailed 2025 vs 2024 NIRF ranking comparison reveals fascinating shifts in institutional performance and research excellence.
In this comprehensive analysis, we examine the 2025 vs 2024 NIRF ranking patterns, showcasing which institutions maintained their stronghold, which ones climbed significantly, and the notable new entrants making their mark in the top 10.
Top 10 Research Institutions (NIRF 2025)
Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru
Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), Chennai
Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi), New Delhi
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay), Mumbai
Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur), West Bengal
Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur), Uttar Pradesh
Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai
Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee), Uttarakhand
Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad
Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati), Assam
👉 These institutions were recognized for their outstanding research output and impact in the NIRF 2025 Research category.
🔗 Official Source: NIRF Research Rankings 2025
NIRF Research Rankings 2025 vs 2024 (Top 10)
| Institute | 2024 Rank | 2025 Rank | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| IISc Bengaluru | 1 | 1 | → Same (Retained #1) |
| IIT Madras | 2 | 2 | → Same (Retained #2) |
| IIT Delhi | 3 | 3 | → Same (Retained #3) |
| IIT Bombay | 4 | 4 | → Same (Retained #4) |
| IIT Kharagpur | 5 | 5 | → Same (Retained #5) |
| HBNI Mumbai | 6 | 7 | ↓ Moved Down (6 → 7) |
| IIT Kanpur | 7 | 6 | ↑ Moved Up (7 → 6) |
| AIIMS Delhi | 8 | — | ↓ Dropped Out |
| IIT Roorkee | 9 | 8 | ↑ Moved Up (9 → 8) |
| AcSIR Ghaziabad | — | 9 | ↑ Newly Entered |
| IIT Guwahati | 10 | 10 | → Same (Retained #10) |
🔗 Source: NIRF Research Rankings 2025
Key Insights from the Rankings
Consistency at the Top: The top five remain unchanged. IISc Bengaluru continues at #1, followed by IIT Madras and IIT Delhi.
IIT Kanpur’s Growth: Moved up from 7th to 6th, reflecting stronger research focus.
HBNI’s Slip: Dropped from 6th to 7th.
AIIMS Delhi Dropped Out: Ranked 8th in 2024, no longer in the top 10 for 2025.
New Entrant – AcSIR Ghaziabad: Entered at #9, replacing AIIMS.
Stable Performers: IIT Roorkee rose slightly (9 → 8), IIT Guwahati retained #10.
Why These Rankings Matter
NIRF Research Rankings influence:
Funding opportunities for institutions
Global collaborations and partnerships
Ph.D. and research choices for students
Government policies on research and innovation
For aspiring researchers, these rankings highlight the best places for Ph.D., postdoc, and advanced research in India.
Institute Selection: Guidance on the best-fit research institute based on your field.
Ranking Trends: Analysis of how institutes are performing over time.
Career Pathways: Support in Ph.D. admissions, fellowships, and global collaborations.
With 15+ years of mentoring, Career Plan B ensures unbiased, expert advice for your research journey.
Have any doubts?
📞 Contact our expert counsellor today and get all your questions answered!
FAQs
Q1. What is the NIRF Research Ranking?
It evaluates institutes based on publications, patents, quality of research, collaborations, and innovation.
Q2. Which institute topped NIRF Research Ranking 2025?
IISc Bengaluru retained the top position.
Q3. Which institute dropped out in 2025?
AIIMS Delhi (ranked 8th in 2024) is no longer in the top 10.
Q4. Which new institute entered the top 10?
AcSIR Ghaziabad entered at 9th place in 2025.
Q5. Do rankings impact Ph.D. admissions?
Yes. Higher-ranked institutes attract better faculty, funding, and collaborations, making them highly competitive for research aspirants.
Conclusion
The 2025 vs 2024 NIRF ranking analysis reveals significant shifts in India’s research landscape. These changes reflect evolving research priorities, increased funding, and institutional improvements across various parameters.
Understanding these 2025 vs 2024 NIRF ranking trends helps prospective students and researchers make informed decisions about their academic future. The data shows consistent performers alongside surprising climbers, indicating a dynamic and competitive research environment.
Stay updated with annual 2025 vs 2024 NIRF ranking comparisons to track institutional progress and identify emerging research powerhouses in Indian higher education.
